Category: Uncategorized

Categories
Uncategorized

FG276: The Advantages of Collaborating

The Power of Collaboration in Driving Growth

Collaboration is about more than teamwork—it’s about harnessing the collective strengths and unique perspectives of individuals to achieve common goals. In a world where challenges are more complex than ever, collaboration brings fresh insights, enhances creativity, and drives innovation.

 

According to a 2024 Zoom report, team collaboration can result in a 41% increase in customer satisfaction.

 

 

Strengthening Partnerships in a Competitive Market

 

As competition intensifies, businesses that foster collaboration can better navigate obstacles and find creative solutions. Here are a few ways to promote a collaborative culture within your company:

  • Encourage Knowledge Sharing: Facilitate regular knowledge exchanges, workshops, or presentations where team members share insights from their expertise.
  • Build Cross-Functional Teams: Form project teams from different departments to bring diverse perspectives and enhance problem-solving.
  • Invest in Collaborative Tools: Equip your team with tools that simplify communication and project management, fostering seamless collaboration.
  • Celebrate Collective Wins: Recognize the achievements of collaborative efforts, reinforcing the value of working together toward common goals.

By adopting these practices, your organization can create a dynamic environment where collaboration is the foundation for growth and success.

#Poll: What’s the most valuable form of collaboration for your business?

Take the poll 

Maximize productivity without breaking the bank

Although it might feel like the cost-efficient solution to keep all of your projects in-house, having your coding team writing marketing content is a bit like using a hockey stick to shovel snow; it could work, but it’s certainly not efficient.

Why not look to your friendly northern neighbors to lend a hand? Discover our range of marketing and communication services, all while taking advantage of the favorable exchange rate!

Contact us to learn more

 

Share your insights with 20,000+ readers!
Showcase your ideas and discuss what’s on your mind by being a guest columnist in our weekly newsletter! With a reach of more than 20,000 monthly readers and an average open rate of over 35%, our platform ensures you capture the attention of industry leaders directly. 
Contact us

Building Collaborative Success

Collaboration opens doors to new ideas and possibilities. Bringing together people with different skills and perspectives can spark unexpected solutions. Consider these steps for building collaboration into your company’s DNA:

  • Host Idea Exchange Forums: Encourage team members to share ideas openly through structured forums or digital channels.
  • Create Collaborative Spaces: Set up virtual or physical spaces where employees can brainstorm, connect, and work together on projects.
  • Recognize Collaborative Efforts: Highlight successful collaborative projects and celebrate team contributions across departments.
  • Partner with External Experts: Invite industry experts or consultants to join brainstorming sessions for fresh insights.
  • Encourage a Culture of Openness: Make it easy for everyone to voice their ideas, encouraging transparency and trust across all levels.

 

What We’re Reading

Please share what you’re reading by tweeting #FGFreads or DM us.

 

 

#FGStory: Sustainable Cities Through Collaborative Innovation

Cities worldwide are partnering with tech firms, non-profits, and citizens to tackle urban challenges through collaborative innovation. From green energy to housing projects, these partnerships are transforming urban living, making cities more sustainable and resilient. Collaboration on this scale is paving the way for a brighter, more unified future.

Read more

 

#ProInsight

“Collaboration is the force that drives meaningful change. By working together, we expand what’s possible.”

Linda Farha
President and Founder, Zenergy Communications
Categories
Uncategorized

Award-Winning Excellence: Bruce Power and SuccessFinder Take Home the Best Leadership Development Program Award

MONTRÉAL, October 29, 2024 / SuccessFinder, the leader in predictive behavioral talent assessment for the workplace, and Bruce Power, Canada’s only private sector nuclear generator, annually producing 30 per cent of Ontario’s power, have been recognized in the coveted 2024 Brandon Hall GroupTM HCM Excellence Award®. SuccessFinder and Bruce Power have won the Bronze award for Best Leadership Development Program.

 

“We’re deeply grateful to our client, Bruce Power, for such a fantastic partnership. This milestone means a lot to us— it demonstrates how our collaboration on integrating behavioral insights into their leadership development program has led to measurable improvements in leadership effectiveness and program satisfaction. This recognition really highlights how powerful SuccessFinder’s insights can be, and we couldn’t be prouder!”, states Ronald Dahms, Chief Executive Officer at SuccessFinder.

 

Bruce Power collaborated with SuccessFinder to develop tailored competency models aligned with their Bruce Power Behaviours for leadership across all levels, strategically created to align with organizational goals. Bruce Power’s leaders underwent SuccessFinder’s psychometric assessment, receiving personalized feedback as part of a comprehensive leadership development initiative. The program has received a positive response and is seen as a foundational support for growth and development of leaders as they guide the organization toward ongoing success in the evolving energy sector.

 

“Winning this award is such an honor for us. SuccessFinder allowed us to elevate our existing leadership development program and make it adaptable and scalable to all levels of leadership including our future leaders. It’s exciting to see the impact, and this recognition really underscores how far we’ve come!” explained Karen Smith, Vice President and CHRO at Bruce Power.

 

SuccessFinder is honored to be consistently recognized for its commitment to delivering solutions that empower organizations to make informed HR decisions, develop high-performing leaders, and drive success. Our numerous accolades over the years highlight our position as a leader in the behavioral assessment industry. These awards reflect our dedication to leadership excellence and are a testament to the hard work of our talented team. We’re excited to continue shaping the future of behavioral assessment and leadership development, leveraging individual strengths from the start of the management journey to inspire and lead more effectively.

 

“Excellence Award recipients have consistently demonstrated their commitment to employee growth and well-being through innovative human capital strategies. These organizations have implemented HCM programs that drive outstanding business results and create a positive and empowering work environment. Our rigorous evaluation process has confirmed these programs as industry-leading in their effectiveness and impact on employee satisfaction,” said Brandon Hall Group Chief Operating Officer Rachel Cooke™, HCM Excellence Awards® program leader.

 

Entries were evaluated by a panel of veteran, independent senior industry experts, Brandon Hall Group analysts, and executives based on these criteria: 

  • Alignment to their business need and environment.
  • Program design, functionality and delivery. 
  • Adoption, integration, user experience, innovation and creativity.
  • Overall effectiveness, impact, and measurable benefits.

“Our award recipients demonstrate an unwavering commitment to excellence in human capital management,” said Brandon Hall Group™ Chief Executive Officer Mike Cooke. “This year, we’ve witnessed some of the most groundbreaking applications of HCM strategies in our organization’s history. Many of these innovations leverage cutting-edge technologies and foster unprecedented levels of cross-functional collaboration, resulting in remarkable improvements in operational efficiency and employee engagement.”

 

Bruce Power and SuccessFinder’s win was announced August 22, 2024. You can view the complete list of winners here: https://excellenceawards.brandonhall.com/winners/.

 

About Bruce Power

Bruce Power is an electricity company based in Bruce County, Ontario. We are powered by our people. Our 4,200 employees are the foundation of our accomplishments and are proud of the role they play in safely delivering clean, reliable nuclear power to families and businesses across the province and cancer-fighting medical isotopes around the world. Bruce Power has worked hard to build strong roots in Ontario and is committed to protecting the environment and supporting the communities in which we live. Formed in 2001, Bruce Power is a Canadian-owned partnership of TC Energy, OMERS, the Power Workers’ Union and The Society of United Professionals. Learn more at www.brucepower.com .

 

About SuccessFinder

Predictable Leadership Excellence.

 

SuccessFinder accelerates leadership excellence by assessing people’s potential using the power of Behavioral DNA. Our solutions empower leaders and teams with self-awareness by revealing the key behaviors required to excel in their roles and reach their full potential. We revolutionize how companies assess, identify, and develop top talent, within their unique context and culture.

SuccessFinder drives results for hundreds of leading organizations around the world, including CAE, Beneva, Magna International, iA Groupe financier, Desjardins, McKesson/Rexall, and many other leading companies, financial institutions and global manufacturers.

Learn more at successfinder.com.

 

About Brandon Hall Group™

Brandon Hall Group™ is the only professional development company that offers data, research, insights and certification to Learning and Talent executives and organizations. The best minds in Human Capital Management (HCM) choose Brandon Hall Group™ to help them create future-proof employee development plans for the new era.

For over 30 years, we have empowered, recognized and certified excellence in organizations worldwide, influencing the development of over 10 million employees and executives. Our HCM Excellence Awards® program was the first to recognize organizations for learning and talent and is the gold standard, known as the “Academy Awards of Human Capital Management.”

The awards recognize the best organizations that have successfully developed and deployed programs, strategies, modalities, processes, systems and tools that have achieved measurable results. We are honored to receive applications from organizations worldwide ranging from small, medium, large and global enterprises to government, not-for-profits and associations.

 

– 30 –

For more information, pictures, or interview requests, please contact:

Zenergy Communications

media@zenergycom.com
Categories
Uncategorized

CDNGLOBAL Welcomes Pat Langdon as President of International Relations and Strategic Growth in Landmark Acquisition

Toronto, Ontario – October 15, 2024 — CDNGLOBAL, a Canadian full-service commercial real estate brokerage and advisory firm, is pleased to announce the acquisition of a controlling interest in Langdon Partners Real Estate Brokerage, a highly regarded Toronto-based, multi-market, commercial real estate brokerage. This acquisition strengthens CDNGLOBAL’s position in Canada and internationally with Pat Langdon, joining CDNGLOBAL in the role of President, International Relations and Strategic Growth.

 

“Pat has spent his career successfully establishing strategic business relationships nationally and globally and will continue to build these relationships with CDNGLOBAL as the company continues executing its strategic growth plans,” said Agron Miloti, CEO of CDNGLOBAL. “In addition, Pat has been a key player in numerous high-profile transactions in Greater Toronto, representing large local, national, and international clients. Together we will create even more value for our clients, offering unmatched service, market insight, and international opportunities.”

 

“We are pleased to welcome Pat to the CDNGLOBAL family,” said Scott Mulligan, Managing Partner and Broker of Record for CDNGLOBAL’s Toronto office. “Pat’s expertise in multi-market brokerage and his international relationships are a great fit for CDNGLOBAL’s future growth.”

 

“The opportunity to combine our two firms and re-engage with long-time industry associates who have similar values and goals was very important to me, and simply something that I could not pass up. Now with CDNGLOBAL, we will continue to build on the success that the company has achieved, and continue the momentum,” said Pat Langdon, President, International Relations and Strategic Growth, CDNGLOBAL.

 

The acquisition of Langdon Partners Real Estate Brokerage represents a significant milestone in CDNGLOBAL’s growth strategy as it continues to expand its footprint in key markets across Canada, North America, and across the globe.

 

About CDNGLOBAL®

Proudly Canadian. Privately owned. Client focused.

 

A progressive team of leading real estate advisors focused on building strong relationships and powering prosperity through innovative commercial real estate solutions based on localized market intelligence, trust, and human connectivity. Designed to serve you better, CDNGLOBAL solutions are tailor-made to suit our clients’ short-term goals and long-term success. CDNGLOBAL provides a wide range of commercial real estate services including industrial, office, and retail leasing, capital markets, investment sales, and commercial real estate advisory services. With expert localized teams in every major Canadian market as well as strategic global partnerships, our clients gain access to any service they seek, in the markets they need, through a single point of contact – your strategic ally in business. Our team’s singular goal is to use our shared resources, expertise, and market intelligence, along with a collaborative and entrepreneurial approach, to deliver the single best strategic solution for each and every client. Based in Vancouver, British Columbia, CDNGLOBAL has offices across Canada. For more information, please go to www.cdnglobal.com.

 

– 30 –

Categories
Uncategorized

Career Opportunity: Agency Client Lead

Zenergy Communications is a dynamic communications and marketing agency specializing in integrated campaigns across a range of industries, including manufacturing, professional services, fashion, and more. We are passionate about building brands through content and design storytelling in order to achieve awareness and bottom-line goals.  We’re a collaborative team of strategists, creatives, and marketing experts dedicated to delivering innovative solutions for our clients. We are growing and need a skilled Client Lead to oversee our diverse client projects from inception to completion.

 

Role Overview:

As an Agency Client Lead, you will manage the execution of marketing, PR, and digital campaigns, ensuring that all project deliverables are met on time, within budget, and aligned with client expectations. You will work closely with our account managers, creative teams, and external stakeholders to drive results and maintain excellent client relationships. If you’re passionate about project management, marketing, and delivering impactful results, we’d love to hear from you!

 

Key Responsibilities:

  • Lead the planning, execution, and delivery of client campaigns across various channels, including digital, social media, PR, and content.
  • Coordinate internal resources and third-party vendors to meet project goals.
  • Ensure all projects are delivered on time, within scope, and budget while maintaining the highest quality.
  • Develop and manage detailed project plans, timelines, and workflows, ensuring transparency and accountability.
  • Act as the primary point of contact for clients, providing updates, managing expectations, and addressing any issues.
  • Collaborate with creative and account teams to translate client needs into actionable project steps.
  • Track project performance, specifically analyzing the successful completion of short- and long-term goals.
  • Identify and manage project risks, ensuring quick resolution of any issues that may arise.
  • Regularly report on project status to both internal teams and clients.

 

Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, or a related field.
  • 3-5 years of relevant experience, preferably in a marketing, PR, or communications agency setting.
  • Proficiency with project management tools.
  • Strong understanding of marketing and digital campaigns, social media strategies, and client relations.
  • Excellent organizational, time management, and multitasking abilities.
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
  • Exceptional communication and leadership skills, with the ability to motivate cross-functional teams.
  • Bilingual (English/French) a plus.

 

What We Offer:

  • Competitive salary with performance-based bonuses.
  • Flexible working hours and remote working.
  • Comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
  • Career growth opportunities within a fast-paced, growing agency.
  • A dynamic, collaborative, and supportive team culture.

 

To Apply:
Send your resume and a cover letter to info@zenergycom.com and tell us why you’re the right fit for this role. Please include examples of relevant experience.

Categories
Uncategorized

SuccessFinder Unveils New Solution Set to Revolutionize Employee Engagement and Leadership Development

New SuccessFinder Talent Growth Solution Provides In-Depth Behavioral Insights to Accelerate Professional Growth

 

Montréal, Québec – October 8, 2024 – SuccessFinder, a leader in predictive workplace behavioral talent assessment, is pleased to announce the launch of SuccessFinder Talent Growth, a groundbreaking solution for scaling impactful talent development across organizations. Rigorously tested and built based on extensive client feedback, the new tool showcases SuccessFinder’s commitment to continuous innovation by offering solutions that effectively respond to evolving human resource challenges.

 

“SuccessFinder Talent Growth not only solves critical HR challenges but also underlines our commitment to innovation and corporate growth by enabling us to expand into new markets,” said Ronald Dahms, CEO of SuccessFinder.

 

The SuccessFinder Talent Growth solution, backed by over 50 years of industrial and organizational psychology research, gives employees instant access to in-depth behavioral insights. Its unique self-serve approach transforms talent development, providing an enterprise solution that empowers employees to take control of their development by understanding their behaviors and overcoming growth barriers. It also helps them align strengths with corporate goals, offers expert guidance, and supports actionable growth plans.

 

“SuccessFinder Talent Growth has the potential to be a game-changer for organizations. It directly addresses the critical need for scaling self-awareness and development company wide. This solution empowers every employee’s growth, fostering a culture of continuous learning and development. The result? A common language around leadership development on top of increased agility and improved employee engagement,” said Ray Kazan, Senior Director, HR – Talent Management at CAE.

 

SuccessFinder Talent Growth marks a significant milestone in HR technology. The solution uncovers talent insights in the context of each organization and their unique leadership model, driving measurable impact for people and businesses alike. The SuccessFinder team has worked tirelessly in developing this solution to exceed industry standards, delivering unmatched value, experience, and insights for human resource and talent departments.

 

About SuccessFinder

Predictable Leadership Excellence.

SuccessFinder accelerates leadership excellence by assessing people’s potential using the power of Behavioral DNA. Our solutions empower leaders and teams with self-awareness by revealing the key behaviors required to excel in their roles and reach their full potential. We revolutionize how companies assess, identify, and develop top talent, within their unique context and culture. SuccessFinder drives results for hundreds of leading organizations around the world, including CAE, Beneva, Magna International, iA Groupe financier, Desjardins, McKesson/Rexall, and many other leading companies, financial institutions and global manufacturers.

Learn more at successfinder.com.

– 30 –

 

For more information, pictures, or interview requests, please contact:

Zenergy Communications

media@zenergycom.com
Categories
Uncategorized

FG276: The Innovation Advantage

The Power of Innovation in Shaping Tomorrow

Innovation isn’t just about groundbreaking products—it’s about rethinking the way we work, communicate, and solve problems. From AI-driven marketing tools to interactive retail experiences, staying ahead of trends allows businesses to evolve and meet the ever-changing needs of consumers. It’s time to reimagine how your brand engages with your audience, as innovation is key to future-proofing your strategy.

 

 

“Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.”

– Steve Jobs

 

Staying Agile in a Fast-Paced World

In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, companies that innovate will not only survive—they’ll lead. Here are a few practical tips to ensure your company remains nimble and ready to embrace innovation:

  • Prioritize Learning and Development: Encourage continuous learning by providing access to courses, webinars, and industry events. This will help your team stay ahead of emerging trends and new technologies.
  • Adopt a Test-and-Learn Mentality: Don’t be afraid to experiment. Start small with pilot programs or limited releases, gather feedback, and revise based on what works or doesn’t.
  • Stay Customer-Centric: Keep innovation focused on solving real problems for your customers. Regularly gather feedback and insights to ensure you’re addressing their evolving needs.
  • Embrace Automation: Automating routine tasks frees up time for more creative and strategic work, helping your team focus on innovation and growth.

By implementing these strategies, your business can remain agile, responsive, and ready to lead through innovation.

#Poll: What Innovation has Impacted/Steered Your Business the Most?

Take the poll 

Canadians Know PR

When it comes to making a PR splash, we’re always channeling our inner Alexis, another fellow Canadian creative who knows how to turn heads and make headlines! We always offer our clients tailored solutions based on their unique needs, because one size totally does not fit all (ew!)

If you’re looking to add a little excitement and flare to your PR strategy, explore our range of services to help get your brand noticed by the right people.

Contact us to learn more

 

Share your insights with 20,000+ readers!
Showcase your ideas and discuss what’s on your mind by being a guest columnist in our weekly newsletter! With a reach of more than 20,000 monthly readers and an average open rate of over 35%, our platform ensures you capture the attention of industry leaders directly. 
Contact us

The Best ‘Eh’gency North of the Border

Zenergy Communications is a proudly Canadian MARCOM agency but our expertise spans far beyond our national borders. Whether you’re an American business looking to ramp up your MARCOM strategy or want to expand your presence to Canada, you don’t need to look further than your own backyard! Look North and discover our extensive range of services all while taking advantage of the lower exchange rate.

Learn more.

What We’re Reading

Please share what you’re reading by tweeting #FGFreads or DM us.

Stay Ahead of the Curve

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital communications, social media has become one of the most valuable tools to help businesses grow and connect with their target audience. However, many have yet to even scrape the surface of its potential.

That’s where we come in.

Social Bootcamp isn’t just another training program; it’s a tailored solution crafted to empower your employees with the knowledge and skills needed to leverage social media effectively. Whether they’re novices navigating the basics or seasoned professionals seeking advanced sales strategies, our program helps to build confidence among participants and amplify your company’s messaging.

Customizable Training for Lasting Impact – Learn more

 

 

#FGStory: Carbon Fiber Batteries Could Revolutionize Transportation

In a groundbreaking development, researchers have designed carbon fiber batteries that could one day form the structural framework of cars and airplanes. These batteries not only store energy but also serve as part of the vehicle’s body, potentially reducing weight and increasing energy efficiency. This innovative technology could transform the way we think about vehicle design, offering a more sustainable and energy-efficient future for transportation.

Read more here.

 

#ProInsight

“Innovation is not just about doing something new—it’s about doing something better. It’s about pushing boundaries, taking risks, and making a positive impact on the world around us.”

Linda Farha
President and Founder, Zenergy Communications
Categories
Uncategorized

KORT PAYMENTS ANNOUNCES TWO NEW BOARD MEMBERS, ONE OF WHOM WILL ALSO SERVE AS CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER

THE STRATEGIC APPOINTMENTS UNDERSCORE THE COMPANY’S AGGRESSIVE INTERNATIONAL GROWTH STRATEGY

 

Toronto, Ontario — October 8, 2024 — KORT Payments (KORT), a leader in specialized omnichannel payments, is pleased to announce two significant leadership appointments to help support its ambitious expansion in the payments industry. Hiep Tran, a seasoned entrepreneur and expert in eCommerce and integrated payments, and Daniel Kornitzer, a respected FinTech leader and strategic advisor, have both joined the KORT Board of Directors, and Tran has also been named Chief Strategy Officer (CSO).

 

As CSO, Hiep Tran will oversee all strategic initiatives related to KORT’s US market rollout. Tran previously co-founded Meritus Payments, which was sold to Paysafe Group in 2014, and later served as a senior executive at Paysafe. He brings decades of experience in card-not-present and risk management solutions and is also widely recognized for his entrepreneurial achievements and extensive industry relationships.

 

Tran will join Daniel Kornitzer, a FinTech veteran and pioneer, on KORT’s Board of Directors. Kornitzer, a thought leader in payments innovation and technology, held senior executive positions at Paysafe and acts as advisor to FinTech companies across the globe.

 

“We are thrilled to welcome both Hiep and Daniel to KORT. Hiep’s entrepreneurial spirit and deep industry relationships, combined with Daniel’s track record of innovation and international payments expertise position KORT for remarkable growth. Their insights will strengthen our ability to deliver industry-leading solutions and expand our presence in key markets,” said Joel Leonoff, Chairman and CEO of KORT Payments.

 

Tran and Kornitzer have known and worked closely with the existing executive team for 10 and 25 years respectively, ensuring a seamless transition into their new roles. KORT continues to fortify its leadership with established industry veterans as it scales its operations and sets a new standard for differentiated commerce solutions.

 

About KORT Payments


KORT Payments (KORT) is a specialized omnichannel payments platform. Its core purpose is to enable businesses to connect and transact seamlessly through industry-leading capabilities in compliance, risk management, and payment processing.

KORT is powered by its innovative full-stack, enterprise-grade platform and led by a seasoned management team. For more than 200 years collectively, this team has been leading the charge in global e-commerce and payment processing.

KORT is a customer-focused business dedicated to enhancing partner and customer satisfaction and building strong relationships. It partners with its customers to pair its risk tolerance with their unique processing needs.

For more information about KORT Payments, please visit www.kortpayments.com.

 

– 30 –

 

Media Contact:

Zenergy Communications

media@zenergycom.com

 

Categories
Uncategorized

KORT PAYMENTS ANNOUNCES ACQUISITION OF BARNET TECHNOLOGIES

Acquisition adds payment processing functionality to Barnet’s best-in-class software, leading to streamlined operations, accelerated growth and economies of scale

 

Toronto, Ontario — September 12, 2024 — KORT Payments (KORT), a leader in specialized omnichannel payments, has taken a major step in expanding its technological capabilities with the acquisition of Barnet Technologies (Barnet), a renowned Canadian software company known for its comprehensive point of sale (POS) systems, tailored to regulated industries. Barnet has built a reputation for excellence and reliability in the licensed liquor sector with its ‘all-in-one’ POS system that integrates a wide range of functionalities, from supplier and inventory management to e-commerce.

 

The acquisition of Barnet aligns with KORT’s aggressive growth strategy and commitment to providing innovative solutions to businesses across North America. In this new chapter, the KORT team will focus on scaling Barnet’s technology and integrating it with their own payment platform to provide a holistic solution for clients, ultimately accelerating the company’s growth. The new integrated system will not only provide added value to existing customers but also generate new recurring revenue streams for KORT.

 

“We established KORT with a mission to identify strategic opportunities in new verticals and our acquisition of Barnet signifies the beginning of this exciting next phase,” said Joel Leonoff, Chairman and CEO of KORT Payments. “Barnet has an exceptionally thorough understanding of regulated industries and a robust technology platform which will serve as a strong foundation as we work to integrate and optimize their product offerings.”

 

“Barnet has always been focused on delivering reliable and efficient solutions to our clients and with KORT’s resources and expertise, we can expand our offerings and bring greater value to our current and future customers,” said Olena Dubina, Founder and CEO of Barnet Technologies. “This acquisition will also enable us to increase the investment in our core offerings and broaden our reach, especially as the market for licensed and regulated businesses continues to grow.”

 

The transaction underscores KORT’s ongoing commitment to identify and capitalize on high-potential opportunities within integrated software platforms and payment services. The company is well-positioned to continue its trajectory of aggressive expansion, technological innovation, and delivering exceptional value to its clients and partners in the rapidly evolving fintech landscape.

 

About KORT Payments


KORT Payments (KORT) is a specialized omnichannel payments platform. Its core purpose is to enable businesses to connect and transact seamlessly through industry-leading capabilities in compliance, risk management, and payment processing.

KORT is powered by its innovative full-stack, enterprise-grade platform and led by a seasoned management team. For more than 200 years collectively, this team has been leading the charge in global e-commerce and payment processing.

KORT is a customer-focused business dedicated to enhancing partner and customer satisfaction and building strong relationships. It partners with its customers to pair its risk tolerance with their unique processing needs.

For more information about KORT Payments, please visit www.kortpayments.com.

 

– 30 –

 

Media Contact:

Zenergy Communications

media@zenergycom.com

 

Categories
Uncategorized

FG276: Innovate, Engage, Create

What is Design Thinking?

Design thinking has been around for centuries. One famous example is Thomas Edison’s invention of the light bulb and the industry that grew around it, which reflects principles now associated with design thinking. While definitions of design thinking vary, a recent Harvard Business Review article calls it “a mindset and approach to problem-solving and innovation anchored around human-centered design”. At its core, design thinking is a mindset, approach, and system—a strategic process and toolkit for collaboration and problem-solving. It revolves around a deep, empathetic understanding of human needs and behaviors. Simply put, it’s a way of formalizing what many design teams already do, enabling others to ‘think like designers’.

 

Popularized by David M. Kelley and Tim Brown of IDEO and Roger Martin of the Rotman School, design thinking into stages:

 

  • Empathize: Gather user insights and empathy from observation, interviews, and other sources, and summarize them in memorable and actionable terms.
  • Define: Work together to get crystal clear on what problem or problems we are trying to solve.
  • Ideate: Use a mix of divergent and convergent thinking to generate numerous ideas for solving the identified problem.
  • Prototype: Develop prototypes, often quite simple, of the ideas to be tested.
  • Test: Test the ideas with would-be users. Iterate and re-test as necessary.
  • Implement: Launch.

 

 

“Creativity is seeing what others see and thinking what no one else ever thought.”

– Albert Einstein

 

#Poll: What Sparks your Creativity the Most?

Take the poll 

Creative Strategies for Marketing Success

Creativity in marketing is more than just flashy visuals or clever slogans—it’s about strategy and context that resonates with the right audience. As consumers crave authenticity and innovation, taking a creative, long-term approach to marketing will help position your brand to stand out and stay top-of-mind. Here are some tips for the development of effective creative marketing campaigns:

 

  • Find Inspiration: Look to successful campaigns to spark new ideas.
  • Focus on a Specific Challenge: Channel creativity into solving a particular problem, like reaching diverse audience segments.
  • Build Partnerships: Collaborate with internal and external partners to provide new creative insights.
  • Apply Across the Organization: Ensure creative thinking is integrated into all aspects of your business to create a unified brand message.
  • Be Consistent: Memorable campaigns with consistent messaging help your brand remain front and center for your audience.

 

 

Share your insights with 20,000+ readers!
Showcase your ideas and discuss what’s on your mind by being a guest columnist in our weekly newsletter! With a reach of more than 20,000 monthly readers and an average open rate of over 35%, our platform ensures you capture the attention of industry leaders directly. 
Contact us

The Best ‘Eh’gency North of the Border

Zenergy Communications is a proudly Canadian MARCOM agency but our expertise spans far beyond our national borders. Whether you’re an American business looking to ramp up your MARCOM strategy or want to expand your presence to Canada, you don’t need to look further than your own backyard! Look North and discover our extensive range of services all while taking advantage of the lower exchange rate.

Learn more.

What We’re Reading

Please share what you’re reading by tweeting #FGFreads or DM us.

Investor Attention

t is common opinion that our attention spans are shrinking. With our addiction to our smartphones and the endless scrolling of short-form social media feeds, it’s no wonder that it’s more difficult to grab people’s attention, and investors are no exception.

New research shows 79% of institutional investors still prefer written content above all other formats—but with a catch: they want it short and sharp!

For reports and whitepapers, the majority want them under five pages, ideally less than three. For videos and podcasts, which often run an hour or more, the preferential length is under 15 minutes and no longer than 30.

This means that IROs need to prioritize concise communication while keeping it focused and digestible. As our society evolves and more people consume their information via short-form content, IROs need to ensure they keep up with the times.

 

#FGStory: Creative New Robotics – Biohybrid Mushrooms!

In a remarkable achievement, one of YouTube’s most influential stars, MrBeast (James Donaldson), spearheaded a global initiative to clean up the oceans, removing 34 million pounds of trash and plastic from waterways worldwide. Teaming up with the Ocean Conservancy and the Ocean Cleanup, MrBeast’s ‘TeamSeas’ initiative brought together hundreds of popular social media influencers to drive donations, raising $30 million and mobilized thousands of volunteers.

 

The initiative garnered incredible support, with digital content from over 200 countries and territories generating 1.3 billion views. The massive cleanup effort highlights the power of social media and the internet to unite people for positive environmental action.

Read more here

#ProInsight

“Creativity isn’t something you can force. It’s something that flows naturally when you allow yourself the space to think, explore, and experiment. For me, it’s not about following trends or sticking to conventional ideas; it’s about taking risks, trusting my instincts, and being open to new perspectives.”

Linda Farha
President and Founder, Zenergy Communications
Categories
Uncategorized

2025 SALARY INCREASES: BUDGETS SLOWLY DECLINING

INCREASES OF 3.4% FORECASTED FOR 2025

 

Toronto, Ontario,  September 4, 2024 – Normandin Beaudry, a leader in actuarial and total rewards consulting services, released the results of its 14th annual Salary Increase Survey with more than 750 Canadian organizations participating in this 2025 edition. Results indicate that Canadian organizations are slowly reducing their budgets for overall salary increases, with an average increase of 3.4% expected in 2025 excluding salary freezes — a 0.2% reduction from 2024.

 

“While economic pressures and the competition for talent remain challenging, we’re beginning to see a gradual return to pre-pandemic market norms as salary increase budgets reduce for a second year in a row,” said Darcy Clark, Senior Principal, Compensation at Normandin Beaudry.

 

HIGHLIGHTS

 

Additional salary budgets are still in play to support compensation issues

 

As salary increase budgets slowly revert to more typical norms, organizations continue to carve out an additional budget to address any pressures that may arise due to labour shortages or economic circumstances. In 2024, approximately 50% of responding organizations allocated an additional budget averaging 1.0% beyond their general salary increase budget. Normandin Beaudry’s survey results indicate that this trend remains, as 44% of Canadian organizations plan on granting the same average additional budget of 1.0% for the 2025 compensation cycle. Among other purposes, these budgets will be used to apply market-driven adjustments, retain employees in critical roles, and differentiate compensation for top performers.

 

Industry sectors forecasting high increases

 

For 2025, the following industry sectors reported higher-than-average salary budget increase expectations:

  • High-tech: 4.3%
  • Telecommunications, data processing, data warehousing and related services: 3.9%
  • Professional, scientific and technical services: 3.7% 
  • Construction: 3.6%
  • Computer design, security, IT services and AI: 3.6%
  • IT consulting services: 3.5%
  • Energy, mining and metals: 3.5%
  • Foundations, community assistance and health care: 3.5%

 

The results of the Salary Increase Survey indicate that, as the labour market continues to balance out and inflationary pressures ease, organizations are feeling less pressure and taking a more conservative approach to managing their compensation spend. “While average salary increase projections remain above 3%, organizations are considering affordability when defining their long-term plans. Several significant salary increase cycles may not be sustainable and organizations remain cautious about increasing recurring payroll costs as they plan for the future,” concluded Clark.

 

The interactive tool, with details by province, industry sector, type of organization and company size, among other data, is available here.

 

About Normandin Beaudry

Founded in 1992, Normandin Beaudry is a leader in actuarial and total rewards consulting services with offices in Montreal, Toronto and Quebec City. Its team of over 350 people serves clients across Canada in various areas of total rewards expertise: Pension, Savings, Investment Consulting, Pension Plan Administration, Group Benefits, Compensation, Health, Performance and Communication.  

 

In 2023, Normandin Beaudry enhanced its global presence by becoming an equal shareholder of MBWL International, a joint venture between Milliman, Barnett Waddingham and Lurse, while maintaining its independent status.

 

About our Compensation Expertise 

Normandin Beaudry’s team of over 40 Compensation consultants is the largest in Canada. Through the sound and innovative use of data and technology, our versatile and creative experts provide clients with unique and simple solutions that address their strategic and operational needs. For more details, visit https://www.normandin-beaudry.ca/en/areas-of-expertise/compensation/

 

– 30 –

 

Media contact:

Zenergy Communications

media@zenergycom.com   

Subscribe to our newsletter

  • Suite LPH02 - 90 Stadium Road
  • Toronto ON M5V 3W5
  • TORONTO.
  • MONTRÉAL.
  • VANCOUVER.
  • NEW YORK.
  • LONDON.

©2025 Zenergy Communications Inc.​